The most beautiful beaches in Portugal: 8 destinations to buy your holiday home

With over 850 km of Atlantic coastline and 3,000 hours of sunshine per year in some regions, Portugal is a true paradise for sea lovers.

From the wild north to the sun-drenched coves of the Algarve, the country boasts some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Long stretches of white sand, spectacular cliffs, secret coves, untouched dunes… the diversity of the Portuguese coastline is unmatched. But beyond their touristic appeal, these beaches also represent strategic locations for investing in a holiday home in Portugal.

Still hesitating between the northern coast and the Algarve beaches? Discover 8 emblematic sites on the Portuguese coastline. Each of these beaches has a unique character: preserved landscapes, typical villages, dynamic property markets or easy access from major cities.

For those considering the purchase of a house or apartment by the sea in Portugal, these destinations combine seaside charm and real investment opportunities, ideal for your holiday home project in Portugal.

1. Praia da Marinha: a cinematic setting to invest in the heart of the Algarve
2. Praia do Camilo: the hidden cove boosting Lagos’ real estate appeal
3. Comporta: discreet luxury and wild nature on the Alentejo coast
4. Foz do Arelho: lagoon, ocean and quality of life near Lisbon
5. Nazaré: tradition and giant waves in a resort full of character
6. Arrábida: a turquoise haven south of Lisbon, between sea and mountains
7. Costa Nova: seaside atmosphere and architectural charm on the Aveiro coast
8. Praia de Miramar: discreet elegance and art of living between Porto and the Atlantic

1. Praia da Marinha: a cinematic setting to invest in the heart of the Algarve

Located in the municipality of Lagoa, Praia da Marinha is one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, often highlighted in international rankings. Surrounded by ochre cliffs sculpted by erosion, bathed by turquoise waters and accessible via a coastal path, it draws lovers of spectacular landscapes, snorkeling and tranquility, away from the busier urban beaches.

The Lagoa region and its surroundings, including Carvoeiro and Benagil, offer a dynamic property market, especially for villas with pools or condominiums. Highly popular among foreign buyers, the Algarve combines modern infrastructure, favourable tax conditions and strong seasonal rental demand. Praia da Marinha offers the perfect balance between natural beauty and long-term investment.
 

Homes and apartments in the Algarve

2. Praia do Camilo: the hidden cove boosting Lagos’ real estate appeal

Just minutes from the historic centre of Lagos, Praia do Camilo is a small cove nestled between cliffs, accessible via a long wooden staircase. With golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s an intimate spot, perfect for swimming and family relaxation. The landscape features rock arches and sea caves, popular among kayakers and photographers. Its peaceful atmosphere pleasantly contrasts with the lively nearby beaches.

Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most sought-after coastal towns for holiday home buyers. The market remains active, offering a wide range of properties from renovated traditional houses to contemporary seafront apartments. The beach proximity, local quality of life and vibrant cultural scene make Praia do Camilo a prime location for a rewarding investment.
 

Homes and apartments in the Algarve

3. Comporta: discreet luxury and wild nature on the Alentejo coast

Located about an hour south of Lisbon, between rice fields, pine forests and dunes, Praia do Comporta enchants with its pure and natural atmosphere. This vast stretch of white sand extends over several kilometres, far from any major urban development. Known for its tranquility, it attracts those seeking discretion, slow tourism and a preserved setting. Comporta embodies a chic, laid-back lifestyle that has become emblematic of coastal Alentejo.

From a real estate perspective, the area has seen the rise of a high-end market, with architect-designed homes blending wood, raw concrete and landscape integration. Properties are rare and highly sought-after, especially by European investors looking for an exclusive pied-à-terre. For those looking to buy a holiday home in Portugal, Comporta offers a unique choice combining serenity, exclusivity and long-term value potential.
 

Homes and apartments in the Alentejo

4. Foz do Arelho: lagoon, ocean and quality of life near Lisbon

At the meeting point of the Óbidos Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, Praia do Foz do Arelho has a dual character: on the lagoon side, calm waters ideal for families; on the ocean side, powerful waves perfect for water sports. The natural setting is exceptional, with green hills, wooden walkways and golden sand. Less touristy than southern beaches, it remains a well-kept secret of the Centre region.

The village of Foz do Arelho, near Caldas da Rainha, attracts those in search of peace and varied landscapes. The local property market still offers reasonably priced homes, from typical houses to contemporary residences overlooking the lagoon. For investors seeking a property near Lisbon but away from the hustle and bustle, this is an appealing alternative for a holiday home in Portugal.
 

Homes and apartments in Central Portugal

5. Nazaré: tradition and giant waves in a resort full of character

On Portugal’s west coast, Praia da Nazaré is world-famous for its giant waves, which draw professional surfers each winter. But it is also a family-friendly seaside resort, with a wide beach lined with cafés, markets and typical whitewashed houses. Sheltered by the Sitio promontory, Nazaré maintains strong cultural roots, from maritime traditions to religious devotion.

Less than two hours from Lisbon, Nazaré is experiencing renewed interest in real estate purchases, particularly in its centre or above the beach. The market remains affordable compared to southern hotspots, with strong seasonal rental yields of 6 to 11%. For buyers looking to combine authenticity, local life and ocean views, this is an excellent starting point for a holiday home in Portugal.
 

Homes and apartments in Central Portugal

6. Arrábida: a turquoise haven south of Lisbon, between sea and mountains

Set in the Arrábida Natural Park, this spectacular beach is located an hour south of Lisbon, between limestone cliffs and Mediterranean forest. Praia da Arrábida is known for its turquoise, almost Caribbean waters, protected from wind and currents. The area is wild and sparsely built-up, making it a favourite among hikers, divers and nature lovers.

Nearby towns like Setúbal and Sesimbra offer a range of attractive properties, from traditional Portuguese homes to modern apartments with bay views. For buyers seeking a balance of nature, accessibility from the capital and a relaxed lifestyle, this region is a strategic choice for a holiday home in Portugal with long-term value.
 

Homes and apartments in the Lisbon region

7. Costa Nova: seaside atmosphere and architectural charm on the Aveiro coast

Not far from Aveiro, the "little Portuguese Venice," Praia da Costa Nova is instantly recognisable thanks to its colourful striped huts lining the main avenue. This retro-style beach resort combines architectural charm with a wide beach facing the Atlantic. It’s popular with families and surfers alike, offering a relaxed vibe, good restaurants and summer events.

Close to the dynamic university city of Aveiro and well-connected to Porto, Costa Nova is a highly accessible destination. The property market remains affordable, featuring renovated fisherman’s houses, contemporary homes and solid seasonal rental yields (around 6%). For buyers looking for a blend of coastal living, local charm and convenience, Costa Nova is an ideal spot for a holiday home investment in Portugal.
 

Homes and apartments in Central Portugal

8. Praia de Miramar: discreet elegance and art of living between Porto and the Atlantic

Located on Portugal’s northern coast, about 20 km south of Porto, Miramar beach stands out for its peaceful and refined atmosphere. Its emblem, the Senhor da Pedra chapel perched on a rock facing the ocean, attracts photographers and walkers year-round. Less crowded than nearby resorts, this fine sandy beach is lined with old villas, maritime pines and walking paths, offering a natural and elegant setting. It’s perfect for sunbathers, sunset strolls or golf (the Miramar course is nearby).

In real estate terms, Miramar offers an attractive position for those seeking to invest in a holiday home close to Porto without the city's hustle. You can find architect-designed houses, traditional second homes or apartments with terraces at prices still accessible compared to the more touristy south.
 

Homes and apartments in Northern Portugal

Whether for holidays, renting or investment, Portuguese beaches offer a unique setting combined with a dynamic property market. Explore all seaside properties at meretdemeures.com and find yours:

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